Visitors can now drop in six days a week to the Waitsburg restaurant that specializes in Southern comfort food at 120 Main St. Through October, the Whoopemup will operate 3-9 p.m. Wednesday through Monday, said dining room Manager and co-owner Ross Stevenson.

While they're at it, they can order up a few new items, including pork ribs with a jerk sauce and yam croquettes.

The Walla Walla-based bank lauded 59 employees from across the Pacific Northwest as recipients of the company's Banner's Best, Production Club and Real Estate Leaders Club awards for 2009, according to an announcement. The awards recognize those who exceed personal and bankwide goals and deliver superior customer service.

The Production Club award recognizes Personal Bankers and Tellers, as well as back office support staff who positively impact production and excel in customer service. Personal Banker Andrew Goss was the local recipient.

Yellow Hawk Cellar is bidding adieu. The 12-year-old Walla Walla winery is stopping production and closing its doors, according to a sign on the tasting room window at 343 S. Second Ave.

The winery was started by winemaker Tim Sampson and Barbara Hetrick. An advertisement on the closure said the full wine inventory is available at "dramatic discounts" effective immediately.

"To our loyal customers and our community, 'Thank you,'" the ad states. "We have been honored to share our love of Italian wine varietals and bring pleasure to your tables. Now it's time for us to stop production and close Yellow Hawk Cellar." For more information call 529-1714.

Strictly Business is a local business column. Vicki Hillhouse can be reached at vickihillhouse@wwub.com or 526-8321.